Slap Back Against Suicide: Hockey Game to Benefit Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

(KNSI) — A fundraiser hockey game to promote good mental health and child suicide prevention is coming up next month.

In 2018, a young man named Jake took his own life. Jake was a “normal 16-year-old kid” loved by everyone and described as a “bright, loving and caring kid who could always make everyone laugh.” From the grief left behind by his loss came the Smiles for Jake movement.

Smiles for Jake’s mission is to be a “suicide prevention movement that spreads positivity through life-affirming actions, listening ears, and the message that everyone should have hope.”

The Smiles for Jake Hockey for a Cause event will pit the Minnesota Loons against the Granite City Lumberjacks at Miller Buick/GMC Arena (Sports Arena East) on Saturday, February 3rd. Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for adults are $10, seniors and students get in for $7, and active duty military and kids under six get in free. There will be a jersey auction, silent auction and a raffle.

Money raised goes to spreading the word about supporting the spread of positivity through life-affirming actions, listening ears, and the message that everyone should have hope.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. Veterans can call that number and press 1.

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